Podcast

Waves of Awareness - WOA it's A Podcast

Business, Education, Non-Profit, Self-Improvement

The Waves of Awareness podcast is all about the amazing work being done by Waves Inc. Waves serves individuals with mental and/or physical disabilities through life skill training, community involvement, employment training and more! This podcast is helping people learn new skills, tell their story and raise awareness for people with disabilities! Be sure to check out wavesinc.com for more information!

Episodes
101
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
34 min
On air since
2023
Latest episode
6 days ago

Episodes

101 episodes, newest first

  1. WOA Season 14 Kickoff in Fairview

    Season 14, Episode 1

    Show notes

    Season 14 of Waves of Awareness is here! We're kicking things off in Fairview with our Waves adults for a conversation full of summer memories, fall favorites, and Halloween fun. From favorite summer activities and seasonal foods to the excitement of cooler weather, our co-hosts share what makes this time of year special. Then, things get spooky as we talk Halloween traditions, favorite movies, costumes, candy, and memories from the Fairview Halloween Party. Plus, find out what costumes might make an appearance this year! Waves of Awareness is a podcast that brings people together through real conversations with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), highlighting their voices, experiences, humor, and connections with their community. Press play to join us for the Season 14 premiere, and get ready for another season of meaningful conversations, community connections, and plenty of laughs! Grief & Bereavement Support If you or someone you know is grieving the loss of a loved one, you don't have to navigate it alone. The following resources offer support and guidance for those experiencing grief: Alive Hospice Grief Center – Grief counseling and support groups in Middle Tennessee. (https://alivehospice.org/care/grief-support/) GriefShare – Find local and online grief support groups. (https://find.griefshare.org/find) What's Your Grief – Educational resources for understanding grief and supporting someone through loss. (https://whatsyourgrief.com/) ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    35 min
  2. WOA Season 13 Finale: A Family's Early Learning Journey

    Show notes

    Wrap up Season 13 of Waves of Awareness with a heartfelt conversation about early intervention, family, growth, and the impact of developmental therapy. In the Season 13 finale of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Shanelle Rauh, a mom of twins who receive developmental therapy through the Waves Early Learning Program. Shanelle sits down with Matt "The Man" Moore, Johnny Sunshine, Jeni the Star, and Waves CEO Staci Davis to talk about her family's journey with Waves, what led them to the Early Learning Program, and the hopes she has for her children as they continue to grow and learn. She also shares about the changes she's seen in her twins since beginning developmental therapy and what the experience has meant to her as a parent. Whether you're a parent navigating early intervention, someone who works with children and families, or simply want to better understand the impact of these services, this conversation offers a meaningful look at the journey. Plus, the crew shares a few personal updates along the way, from Jeni's job search to birthday plans and Matt's speech therapy sessions. Hit play and celebrate the Season 13 finale with us! ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, visit: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ To purchase tickets to Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745

    31 min
  3. Person-Centered Practice: Supporting Choice & Independence

    Season 13, Episode 9

    Show notes

    What does it really mean to put people at the center of the support they receive? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, Amanda Brewer from the Person Centered Practice Unit at the Tennessee Department of Disability & Aging joins us for a conversation about person-centered support, choice, self-advocacy, and the importance of listening to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Amanda shares insight into what this approach looks like in everyday life—not just as a concept, but as a way to help people have greater choice, control, and opportunities to shape their own lives. Along the way, she shares lessons she's learned from the people she supports and one important idea she hopes everyone remembers about person-centered support. Waves adults John and Jeni join Waves CEO Staci Davis as co-hosts. Jeni also shares an exciting new opportunity with Backlight Productions as she prepares for the upcoming production of Newsies, while John talks about some of his summer highlights and what he's looking forward to this fall. Hit play for a thoughtful conversation about person-centered practices, meaningful choice, and what can happen when we truly listen to the people we support. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about the Department of Disability & Aging, visit: https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging.htmlFor more information about Backlight Productions, visit: https://backlightproductions.org/To purchase tickets to Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745

    36 min
  4. Their World Collective: A Community for Moms

    Show notes

    On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're getting to know Their World Collective, a new nonprofit focused on connecting and supporting moms of children with autism. Lindsey Pagley, Executive Director, and Sasha Prince, Operations Director, join us to share what inspired them to start the organization, the community they're building, and the families at the heart of their work. Both Lindsey and Sasha have personal connections to Waves through their children's experiences with the Waves Early Learning Program. Waves Early Learning Program Co-Director Jen Choate joins the conversation as well. Jen provided developmental therapy for Sasha's son and now serves on the Board of Directors for Their World Collective, bringing another perspective to the conversation. Plus, John and Jeni share a few life updates, including John's involvement with the Waves Board of Directors and Jeni's recent visit to the Williamson County Animal Center with our ECF program. Press play to hear more about Their World Collective, autism support, and the community they're creating for moms. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Their World Collective, visit: https://www.theirworldcollective.org/To purchase tickets to Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745

    39 min
  5. Growing Side by Side: A Twin Family's Journey

    Season 13, Episode 7

    Show notes

    What does early intervention really look like for a family? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, you'll hear from both sides of the journey. Parent Callie Ballard joins the podcast alongside Waves Early Interventionist Michelle Baker to share the story of Callie's twin boys and their experience with developmental therapy through the Waves Early Learning Program. Together, they talk about recognizing developmental delays, taking the first step toward support, and what early intervention looked like in everyday life. Callie opens up about the emotions that often come with seeking services, the progress her sons have made along the way, and the encouragement she'd offer to parents who may be wondering if developmental therapy is the right next step. Michelle shares her perspective as an early interventionist, offering insight into how therapy is tailored to each child and why partnering with families is at the heart of every session. If you're a parent searching for answers, a caregiver navigating developmental milestones, or simply curious about the impact of early intervention, this conversation offers honest stories, practical insight, and hope. Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis alongside Waves adult co-hosts Jeni and John, this episode also includes updates from Jeni about her work with Backlight Productions and John's excitement for a few upcoming fall events. Hit play to hear a conversation about growth, partnership, and the difference early support can make. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, go to: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/

    42 min
  6. Visit Franklin: Beyond the Brochure

    Season 13, Episode 6

    Show notes

    On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Heather Doleshel, Senior Manager of Stakeholder Engagement at Visit Franklin, for a conversation about what makes Franklin, Tennessee such a special place to live, work, and visit. Heather shares how Visit Franklin supports the local community, the role tourism plays in strengthening small businesses and the local economy, and why partnerships between organizations like Visit Franklin and nonprofits such as Waves are so important. Along the way, she also highlights a few local favorites and hidden gems that both visitors and longtime residents can enjoy. Co-hosting this episode are Johnny Sunshine and Jeni Tanner from Waves, alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis. Johnny and Jeni catch listeners up on what's new in their lives—including Jeni's involvement with the next Backlight Productions show and Johnny's summer adventures. Whether you're a Franklin local, planning a visit, or simply interested in the people and organizations that help communities thrive, this episode offers an inside look at what makes Franklin such a unique place to call home. 🎧 Listen now to discover the stories, partnerships, and local spirit that continue to make Franklin a destination worth experiencing. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Visit Franklin, go to: https://visitfranklin.com/

    40 min
  7. "Access for All: The Heart Behind Elizabeth's Gift "

    Show notes

    On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Jonathan and Stephen Smith, two of the founders of Elizabeth's Gift, a nonprofit created in honor of their late sister, Elizabeth. Through Elizabeth's Gift, the Smith brothers and their other sister, Caroline, are working to make adaptive equipment more accessible by providing essential resources to people with disabilities at no cost. Jonathan and Stephen share the story behind Elizabeth's Gift, the personal experiences that inspired their mission, and the importance of creating more inclusive communities where people with disabilities have the tools and support they need to thrive. Tune in to hear how one family's journey has grown into a mission that is helping others and creating meaningful impact. Waves adults Johnny Sunshine and Jeni join Waves CEO Staci Davis as co-hosts for this episode. They share updates from their own lives, talk about upcoming community events, and bring their usual energy and personality to the conversation. You may even hear a special musical moment from Jeni! Hit play to hear more about disability advocacy, adaptive equipment access, community support, and the power of turning personal experiences into positive change. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Elizabeth's Gift, visit: https://www.elizabethsgift.com/To stay up to date on events with Elizabeth's Gift, follow them on socials @elizabethsgift

    33 min
  8. Early Learning Support: A Family's Experience

    Show notes

    What does early intervention really look like for a family? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Erica Shannon, mom to Connor, who receives services through the Waves Early Learning Program. Erica shares her family's experience with early intervention, from taking those initial steps to finding support and watching Connor grow through developmental therapy. Hear how Early Learning has helped build Connor's confidence, encouraged new skills, and supported his development, while Erica reflects on the importance of having a strong support system and offers encouragement for parents who may be considering early intervention services for their own child. Co-hosted by Waves adults John and Jeni alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis, this episode also includes fun conversations about favorite music, movies, upcoming Waves events, and Jeni's bingo nights with The Arc of Williamson County. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply passionate about disability inclusion and child development, this episode offers an encouraging look at the impact early support can have on a family's journey. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To purchase presale tickets to Waves' annual Brews & Grooves fundraiser, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745 To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    44 min
  9. The Power of Early Intervention: A Mom's Story

    Season 13, Episode 3

    Show notes

    On this episode of Waves of Awareness, Waves welcomes Lauren Woodson, a mom from our Early Learning Program, for a heartfelt conversation about her family's experience with early intervention and the impact it has had on their journey. Lauren shares how her family first connected with Waves Early Learning, the ways early intervention has supported her son Noah's growth, and the meaningful relationships that have made a difference along the way. She also reflects on the role of their early interventionist, Miah, and shares encouragement for other parents who may be exploring early learning services for their child. Joining Lauren as co-hosts are Waves adults Johnny Sunshine and Jeni, alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis. Together, they discuss the importance of support at every stage of life, hear more about John and Jeni's experiences at Waves, and catch up on some exciting recent moments — including a special concert experience and upcoming community events. Whether you're a parent navigating developmental milestones, interested in early intervention services, or looking to better understand the impact of inclusive support, this episode offers a glimpse into one family's journey and the connections that help individuals thrive. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To purchase presale tickets to Waves' annual Brews & Grooves fundraiser, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745 To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    26 min
  10. Navigating Disability Together: With Caroline Aly of Carehack

    Season 13, Episode 2

    Show notes

    What does it really take to support families caring for loved ones with disabilities? This week on Waves of Awareness, we welcome Caroline Aly, Founder and Executive Director of Carehack, for a conversation about caregiving, disability support, and the resources families need most. Joined by Waves CEO Staci Davis and co-host Johnny Sunshine, Caroline shares the story behind Carehack and discusses topics like respite care, consistency, and the everyday challenges many families of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities face. In this episode, you'll hear about: -The mission behind Carehack -Why respite and consistent support matter -Common challenges caregivers face -Ways everyonen can better support families in the disability community Whether you're a caregiver, parent, advocate, or simply want to learn more about the disability community, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/To learn more about Carehack, visit: https://www.carehack.org/

    31 min
  11. Season 13 Kickoff in Fairview

    Season 13, Episode 1

    Show notes

    The voices of Waves are back for a brand-new season of Waves of Awareness! Welcome to Season 13 🎉 We're kicking off the season from our Fairview Day Program with a special episode featuring Waves adults John, Stephanie, Hannah, Adam, Jimmy, and Eric alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis. After a two-month break, the crew is back to share life updates, talk about upcoming community events, and dive into all things summer. From favorite summer memories and movies to personal goals, dream vacations, and even summer superpowers, this conversation is full of laughter, personality, and plenty of surprises. At Waves, we believe in creating opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to share their voices, experiences, and perspectives—and this episode does exactly that. You'll get to know our co-hosts, hear what's happening in their lives, and experience the fun, authentic conversations that make Waves of Awareness unique. Whether you're part of the disability community, a family member, advocate, nonprofit supporter, or simply looking for an uplifting podcast, this episode is a great place to start. Tune in and spend some time with the voices of Waves—you never know where the conversation will go. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: http://wavesinc.com/ To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    36 min
  12. Season 12 Finale: A Conversation with Mayor Anderson

    Season 12, Episode 10

    Show notes

    Celebrate the Season 12 finale of Waves of Awareness with a conversation that takes you inside the heart of local leadership in Williamson County. This week, we're joined by Rogers Anderson, who sits down to share the path that led him to serve as county mayor—and what the role really looks like behind the scenes. From day-to-day responsibilities you may not expect to the biggest priorities shaping the county right now, this episode offers a closer look at how decisions are made and what's ahead for one of Tennessee's fastest-growing communities. Hosted by Staci Davis alongside co-host Johnny Sunshine, the conversation also includes a few personal updates and a glimpse into what's coming up at Waves. If you're curious about local government, community growth, or the future of Williamson County, this episode is a great place to start. 🎧 Press play to hear: -What the role of a county mayor actually involves -The biggest challenges and opportunities facing Williamson County -How leaders balance long-term vision with immediate needs -A look ahead at what could shape the county's future Thanks for being part of Season 12 of Waves of Awareness. Season 13 is on the way—make sure you're following so you don't miss what's next.

    29 min
  13. Mobilizing Communities: with Debby Rainey of United Way

    Season 12, Episode 9

    Show notes

    This week on Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Debby Rainey from United Way of Greater Nashville, an organization dedicated to uniting the community and mobilizing resources so that every child, individual, and family can thrive. Debby—known for her work as a community connector, problem solver, and moment maker—opens up about her journey with United Way, the pressing needs she's seeing in our community, and a story that highlights why her mission matters. She also shares what excites her about the future of United Way and how everyday people can make an impact. Your hosts, Waves CEO Staci Davis and Waves adults Hannah, John, Jimmy, Jeff, and Adam, share their own personal updates at the end—including a wedding Hannah is attending and upcoming events Jimmy is excited about. 🎧 Listen now to hear insights on community impact, giving back, and how we can all play a role in building a stronger, more connected Nashville. ________________________________________ For more information about United Way of Greater Nashville: https://www.unitedwaygreaternashville.org/ Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    20 min
  14. Special Olympics Impact: With Joanne Drumright

    Season 12, Episode 8

    Show notes

    This week on Waves of Awareness, we're diving into the inspiring world of Special Olympics Tennessee! 🎉 Join Waves CEO Staci Davis and our Waves adults—Tripp, Eric, Jeni, and John—as they welcome Joanne Drumright, COO of Special Olympics Tennessee, and her son Matthew, a proud Special Olympics athlete. Hear firsthand why Special Olympics matters, what drives Joanne in her role, and the hopes she has for the future of this incredible organization. Matthew shares his favorite sports, the personal growth he's experienced through competition, and some unforgettable memories from the games. Plus, our Waves crew brings their own fun updates—from Jeni's WWE fandom to John's exciting announcement about our upcoming Breakfast Fundraiser! Whether you're a supporter, athlete, or just curious about how sports can empower people of all abilities, this episode is packed with heart, laughter, and inspiration. 🌊 What You'll Learn in This Episode: -The mission and impact of Special Olympics Tennessee -How sports help athletes grow on and off the field -Ways you can get involved and support the movement -Fun life updates from the Waves team Tap "Play" to be inspired and discover how inclusion and community can make a real difference! ________________________________________ For more information about Special Olympics Tennessee: https://www.specialolympicstn.org/ Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    31 min
  15. Communication That Connects: with Charles Booth from the City of Brentwood

    Season 12, Episode 7

    Show notes

    How does a city stay connected to its community? What does public service really look like behind the scenes? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we sit down with Charles Booth, Community Relations Director for the City of Brentwood, to explore the strategy, heart, and responsibility behind municipal communication and community engagement. Charles shares what it truly means to serve a growing city — from managing public information and strengthening community trust to leading projects that help residents feel informed, heard, and connected. If you're interested in public relations, local government, leadership, strategic communication, or careers in public service, this conversation offers real-world insight you won't hear in a textbook. You'll also hear from Waves CEO Staci Davis and adult co-hosts Johnny Sunshine and Jeni Tanner as they share personal updates — including a Nashville Predators game experience and excitement for upcoming Waves fundraisers. Whether you're passionate about civic leadership, curious about how cities communicate during big moments, or simply love meaningful conversations about community impact, this episode will leave you thinking differently about the role communication plays in everyday life. Press play to go behind the scenes of public service — and discover how strong communication builds stronger communities. ________________________________________ For more information about the City of Brentwood: https://www.brentwoodtn.gov/Home Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    39 min
  16. From Classroom to Caregiver: Bridging Gaps Through Early Intervention

    Season 12, Episode 6

    Show notes

    On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're diving into the power of early intervention, school partnerships, and family collaboration. Early interventionists Alisha Kelley and Michelle Baker join us to share what it really looks like to support children inside the classroom — and how they help bridge the gap between teachers and caregivers to create consistency, confidence, and growth. What happens when school routines become meaningful developmental moments? How do early learning professionals partner with educators without disrupting the flow of the classroom? And what can families gain when everyone is truly on the same team? You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at early intervention in action — plus real stories that highlight why collaboration between schools and families matters more than ever. Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by Waves adults Johnny Sunshine and Jeni Tanner as her co-hosts, who share personal updates, including Jeni's upcoming show with Backlight Productions and excitement around the Waves Annual Fundraising Breakfast, where Johnny will be giving the prayer. If you care about early childhood development, inclusive education, or building stronger connections between home and school, this conversation is for you. Press play and join us! 🎧 ________________________________________ For more information Waves' Early Learning Program, click here: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    28 min
  17. Finding Your Way To Serve: With Jann Seymour From Hands On

    Season 12, Episode 5

    Show notes

    On this week's episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Jann Seymour from Hands On Nashville (now Hands On), a leading volunteer connector serving Nashville and surrounding communities. If you've ever wondered: -How to find meaningful volunteer opportunities near you -How nonprofits get the support they need -Or how one act of service can ripple through an entire community …this conversation is for you. Jann shares how Hands On connects thousands of volunteers with more than 200 nonprofits and community organizations, meeting real needs through service. She opens up about what makes her role so meaningful, the impact she sees every day, and a few powerful volunteer stories that might just inspire your next "yes." Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis alongside Waves adults John and Jeni, this episode also features life updates you'll love — including highlights from our recent ValenTUNES Bash with The Arc of Williamson County and excitement around what Jeni and John are looking forward to this spring. This episode will leave you encouraged — and ready to take action. There truly is a place for everyone in the world of volunteering. Hit play to discover where yours might be. 🌊 ________________________________________ For more information about Hands On: http://hon.org/ Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    34 min
  18. Derby Jones on Local Impact: Herald & Rotary Spotlight

    Show notes

    This week on Waves of Awareness, we welcome Derby Jones, publisher, editor, and owner of the Williamson Herald, to discuss the importance of local news in Williamson County. Derby shares his passion for telling local stories that strengthen communities and highlights his experience as treasurer and past president of the Franklin Noon Rotary. Learn why Rotaries are essential for community engagement and making a local impact. Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis, with co-hosts John, Jeni, Christy, Robert, and Katie, this episode also includes life updates from the co-hosts, including our upcoming Waves breakfast fundraiser and Christy's work at Goodwill. Hear how Waves supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and empowers them in daily life. 🎧 Don't miss this insightful episode on local journalism, community service, and disability support—listen now! ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    35 min
  19. Derek Schletzer's Why: Serving on the Waves Board

    Season 12, Episode 3

    Show notes

    Why Serve on a Nonprofit Board? Purpose, Community & Finding Your "Why" | Derek Schletzer What motivates someone to join a nonprofit board—and stay committed? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by Waves adults Johnny Sunshine and Jeni Tanner as they sit down with Waves board member Derek Schletzer for a meaningful (and fun!) conversation about purpose, community impact, and servant leadership. Derek shares the personal story that first connected him to Waves, the "why" behind his decision to serve on a nonprofit board, and what he's learned about leadership, advocacy, and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). If you've ever wondered whether board service is right for you—or why community involvement matters more than ever—this conversation offers real insight without the corporate jargon. You'll also hear: Why community support is essential for nonprofits to thrive How personal experiences can shape a passion for service A favorite Waves memory that involves rhythm, connection… and a drum circle Updates from Johnny and Jeni, including an upcoming show with Backlight Productions and exciting seasonal events on the horizon This episode blends heart, humor, and practical insight into what it really means to show up for your community. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, a potential board member, a family member, or simply someone who cares about making a difference, this conversation will leave you inspired. Hit play and ride the wave with us. 🌊 ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    31 min
  20. Quality Care at Waves: People-First Disability Services

    Season 12, Episode 2

    Show notes

    What does quality care really look like—and how does Waves make sure it's happening every day? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, the hosts sit down with Waves' Quality Assurance Advisor for a behind-the-scenes look at how quality assurance supports meaningful, person-centered services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From what goes into evaluating programs to why quality matters beyond the paperwork, this conversation sheds light on the systems—and heart—behind great care. You'll also hear about exciting ways Waves is continuing to strengthen quality across its programs. Recorded live in Fairview, this episode brings high energy and plenty of personality. Waves CEO Staci Davis is joined by co-hosts Adam, Jimmy, and Stephanie from the Fairview Day Program, who share what they're looking forward to in 2026, reflect on recent holiday highlights, and add their own insights (and laughs) along the way. Thoughtful, fast-moving, and full of genuine moments, this episode blends real talk, big-picture vision, and plenty of fun. If you're curious about how quality care comes to life at Waves—or just want an engaging, feel-good listen—this one's for you. 🎧 Hit play and join the conversation. ________________________________________ Learn more about Waves: http://wavesinc.com/ Watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness Learn more about Spread The Positive: https://spreadthepositive.net/

    39 min